The Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts brings more than just artists and alumni to State College — it also brings a spike in crime.
However, State College police saw a marked decrease in many crimes this Arts Fest weekend when compared to previous years.
Police received fewer total calls, responded to fewer alcohol-related calls that required medical assistance, and issued fewer total citations, according to figures released by the State College Police Department.
Despite the fewer total calls, this year also saw a pricey case of criminal mischief. Police say someone damaged the water buckets on Allen Street sometime Friday night, causing an estimated $6,500 in damage to the popular attraction. However, crews were able to get the buckets up and running again by Saturday morning.
Police also say there were two reported cases of sexual misconduct: one rape, and one sexual assault. Police are actively investigating both cases, both of which involved a perpetrator that the victim reportedly knew. Police stress these are not cases of “stranger danger,” and say there is no risk to the community at large.
In total, the police department received 229 calls, which is down from 235 calls last year but still more than the 171 calls police received in 2013.
Citations for many crimes dropped from last year to this year. Public drunkenness citations were more than halved, dropping from 24 to 11. There were 22 underage drinking violations, which is eight less than last year.
Police had to issue 17 warnings for parties and noise violations, which is down from 25 last year. Despite the decrease in warnings, six citations had to be issued for noise violations where last year only saw a single noise citation.
Only 14 alcohol-related calls required medical assistance, which is also down from 25 last year.
There were four DUI arrests, double the amount made in 2014.
Despite at least one case of theft of two rings valued at $220 from an Arts Fest vendor, police say there was no reported damage to any artist booths or property.
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